The Belleville Senators were unable to score in their game against the Utica Comets, falling 3-0 in the first match of their weekend series.
Both teams created several scoring opportunities early on, but Utica drew first blood. The Comets' power play was effective after Seamus Casey and Xavier Parent executed a quick passing sequence that set up Matyas Melovsky, who scored to give Utica a 1-0 lead. Belleville faced three penalty kills and were outshot 15-5 in this period.
The pace remained intense as Utica extended their lead. Calen Addison scored his first goal of the season, doubling the Comets' advantage after assists from Jonathan Gruden and Mikael Diotte. Later in the period, former Senator Angus Crookshank scored his fourth goal, assisted by Ethan Edwards and Ryan Schmelzer, pushing the score to 3-0.
Belleville generated a few scoring chances but could not convert any, ending the game with a 3-0 loss.
The Senators and Comets face each other again soon, with Belleville returning home to Adirondack Bank Center next Friday. This is part of a three-game New York State road trip for Belleville in their 10-game series.
"The Comets’ power play capitalized on a quick passing sequence from Seamus Casey and Xavier Parent."
"Calen Addison doubled the lead to 2-0 with his first goal of the season."
"Former Senator Angus Crookshank jammed the puck in at the side of the net for his fourth goal of the season."
Summary: The Belleville Senators struggled offensively in a 3-0 defeat to Utica, who capitalized on strong power plays and sharp passing to secure an early series lead.